Over 40 remains from landslide-affected graves at Kampung Sim-Sim cemetery reburied

 

Family members and residents gather after the reburial process of remains affected by the landslide at the Kampung Sim-Sim Muslim Cemetery in Sandakan. PIC COURTESY OF READER

SANDAKAN: More than 40 bodies from graves affected by a landslide at the Kampung Sim-Sim Muslim Cemetery three months ago were reburied in a single grave here today.

All the remains were relocated to a flat area within the same cemetery, with the operation managed by the Sandakan office of the Sabah Islamic Religious Affairs Department (JHEAINS).

Sandakan Religious Affairs Administrative Officer Rahmin Arman said the relocation process proceeded smoothly with the cooperation of the Community Development Leaders Unit (UPPM), Sandakan Municipal Council (MPS), police, family members and local residents.

"The relocation process was carried out in accordance with the advice of the Sabah Mufti that all the remains be reburied in a single grave.

"This is in line with Islamic law and to preserve the dignity of the deceased," he said.

Rahmin said the process was also witnessed by Sabah JHEAINS director Datuk Awang Juri Ag Tahir via video call to ensure it was carried out in an orderly manner.

He said the affected cemetery area would be proposed to be gazetted as a burial-prohibited zone in the future to prevent further landslide risks and ensure public safety.

In the incident on March 11, more than 20 graves were reported damaged after a landslide occurred at the cemetery.

Apart from the affected cemetery, an elderly man, Agustine Frederick J Lingam, 76, was also reported to have died after being buried in a landslide at a hotel in Sandakan town. - NST